James Blake plays Carlos Berlocq in the night session in Houston.
Blake has never been a big fan of clay during his career but he has achieved some impressive results in Houston in the past. He came close to winning the title on two occasions, reaching the final in 2008 and the semi-finals a year earlier.
It's a quicker surface than most clay-courts and it enables the shot-makers like Blake to enjoy some success. The American is undoubtedly approaching the end of his career with many wondering when he will call it quits. His ranking has dropped outside the top 150 and he relies on wildcards into most events.
He battled into the third round of the Miami Masters last week before being put to the sword by Novak Djokovic, managing just two games against the eventual champion.
Berlocq enjoys most of his success on the challenger circuit and the Argentine has achieved little of note on the main tour this year, even on clay. He found some form in Miami, winning a couple of rounds before pushing Tomas Berdych close in round three.
They have played once before, Blake handing out a double bagel in Miami five years ago.
Prediction: Blake in three
